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Rh every other feeling gradually lost in terror. The air grew chill around, and her knees trembled beneath her weight.

"Guido!" she exclaimed, in a voice choked with emotion, "for God's sake, speak!"

Still the figure moved not—spoke not—but continued to fix upon her the same look of reproach and love. All the gentle scenes of their youth seemed to grow present before her; she felt that she had never loved but him, and that all other hopes and ties were but as a vain dream.

"I care not if I die!" exclaimed she, impetuously; "let my head rest but once again on that heart once so dearly mine!"

Marie sprang forwards. She attempted to clasp the hands of her visitor, but her hands closed on the empty air. She staggered as with a blow; again she met that mournful face turned towards her, but even as she looked it melted into air. She glanced hurriedly round, but Guido was gone!—yet the door remained closed. She shrieked his name, but all was still as the grave. She threw a searching glance round the chamber, but in the effort sank senseless on the ground.